KABOCHA SQUASH & CHESTNUT SOUP WITH KALE SESAME CRISPS

October 29th, 2014

pin it!pin it!pin it!pin it!
Perhaps you have an inclination already, but I have a lot of cookbooks. There’s a built-in bookcase wall in our office upstairs with at least a hundred stored away, always within reach for reference. I have a bunch of selects on my coffee table because they blur that line between practicality and aesthetic experience. We have a little shelf-style cabinet in the kitchen for a small rotation of cookbooks or magazines that I’m particularly enjoying at the moment–for inspiration or outright line-by-line recipe following. A lot of spaces for a lot of different styles of cookbooks, all enjoyed in their own way.

I’ve had Amy Chaplin’s first published cookbook At Home In The Whole Food Kitchen for about a month and it travels with me all over the house. As soon as it arrived, I excitedly ripped the box open on my porch and flipped through it right then and there. First it sat on my coffee table, readily available for browsing while I caught up with the early morning news or while I half-watched football with Mark on Sundays. It sat on my desk in the office as a relevant distraction while I edited photos or worked on other recipe-related projects. Now, it has a permanent home in my kitchen bookshelf, the most reached-for and beloved place for any book celebrating food in my home. It’s full of recipes to better your own connection to food, but also ones that are special enough (and still accessible) to bring your people together for real nourishment.

I’ve always trusted Amy’s voice on her blog because she’s worked in food professionally in a variety of ways–as a renowned Chef, teacher, and recipe developer for a number of publications that I respect. Her sensibility, approach to food and combinations always appeal to some deeper part of me–not just the part that’s hungry for lunch. Her work and style makes perfect sense on a different level of awareness. I love when a book lies at a very particular intersection, the one that joins beauty/inspiration, practicality, and knowledge/curiosity. This is a vegetarian cookbook that I will refer to for the rest of my life. There are breakdowns of pantry staples, recipes you can make from those staples, whole meals, salads, desserts (with a particularly gorgeous section on tarts), but also notes on tea and cleansing. It’s a vision of healthy living that is complete, accessible and inspiring.

I made the kabocha and roasted chestnut soup since we’re deep into the season for all of those things. The ingredient list is pretty minimal, which I love. Just buttery roasted chestnuts enhancing the sweetness of the squash and a little finish of tamari to keep it perfectly savoury. We had it with some potato and herb focaccia for dinner the other night. Just right, but especially good because of the crunchy “leaves” on top. I love a whimsical and seasonal touch that evokes the goings-on of the outdoors in my food. It’s all about connection. Other recipes from the book that I’m eager to try: the date pistachio praline tart, heirloom bean bourguignon with celery root mash, beet chickpea cakes, kale slaw with creamy mustard dressing, and the plum millet muffins.

Giveaway is now closed! :) Thanks for participating. Rather generously, Amy’s publisher sent me an extra copy to give away here. I’m thrilled to send this out to one of your homes because I know it will make a big difference in your food life. All I ask for entry is that you comment on this post with your favourite one pot/soup/stew kind of meal for this time of year. For me, it’s the Moroccan-style stew with sweet potatoes and chickpeas that I posted last year. Proper cozy-making. I will have to limit this giveaway to my pals in North America, guys. The deadline for entering will be Sunday November 2nd at 9pm EST. And one more note! I did a guest post about my morning routine, true nourishment, and some quinoa porridge at my pal Elenore‘s blog last week, which was so fun because I love that woman way too much. Click over to Earthsprout to see :) xoxo

pin it!pin it!pin it!pin it!pin it!pin it!pin it!KABOCHA SQUASH AND ROASTED CHESTNUT SOUP WITH KALE SESAME “LEAVES”Print the recipe here!
from Amy Chaplin’s At Home In The Whole Food KitchenSERVES: 6NOTES: Amy’s original recipe calls for sheets of nori seaweed brushed with a mirin + sesame oil mixture brushed on top for the “leaves.” I only used kale because in the midst of throwing this together, I realized that I didn’t have any nori! Anyway if you have nori, you can tear the sheets into pieces and brush them with a mix of the following: 2 tsp olive oil, 2 tsp mirin + 1 tsp sesame oil. Sprinkle the nori with sesame seeds and bake in a 300 degree F oven for 8 minutes, rotating the sheet pan halfway through.

First, prepare the chestnuts. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. Place the chestnuts flat side down on the cutting board. With a serrated knife, cut a little slit into the top of each one. Place the cut chestnuts into a medium sauce pan and cover them with filtered water. Bring them to a boil and then drain. Transfer drained chestnuts to a sheet pan and roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until shells are coming away from the innards. Once cool enough to handle, peel chestnuts and set aside, discarding the shells.

Lower the oven heat to 400 degrees F. Wipe out the sheet pan used for the chestnuts. Tear kale leaves into slightly larger than bite-size pieces. Drizzle them with the olive oil and maple syrup and season with salt and pepper. Toss and massage the leaves until they are thoroughly coated. Arrange them in a single layer and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Slide the tray into the oven and bake for about 7-8 minutes, or until the kale has crisped and curled up just a little bit (these burn so fast, so be careful). Remove the kale leaves from the oven and allow to cool.

Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy pot over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until quite soft, about 5-6 minutes. Add the garlic and stir, cooking for about 30 seconds or until fragrant. To the pot, add the salt, squash, chestnuts, water, sage, and bay leaves. Place a lid on the pot and bring to a boil. Simmer until the squash is tender, about 20 minutes. Purée the soup in batches in a blender and return to the large pot. Add tamari, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve hot with kale sesame leaves.

I have her book in my wishlist for christmas, I can’t wait :(
And this soup seems just perfect to me : I am addicted to kabocha, I love chestnuts and kale is my new friend :DReplyCancel

Shaughn29/10/2014 - 5:48 am

Fantastic photographs and that soup looks amazing. I haven’t found the courage to master the chestnut…in fact, I don’t think I’ve ever even tried it and believe me, most foods find a way to be in my stomach!
My favorite go-to stew was beef bourguignon, but now that I’m eating vegan I have to find a new replacement. Generally anything with north african chickpea yumminess will do!ReplyCancel

Jessica29/10/2014 - 6:14 am

My current favorite seasonal meal is a recipe you shared earlier this month – the Cauliflower, Kale + Chickpea Curry Pot! I love it over a bowl of brown basmati rice, the flavors all melt together. I’ve added some additional spices (cinnamon, paprika) to add a bit of sweetness to the recipe, but it’s so simple and delicious. Prior to that recipe, my favorite fall soup was from Donna Hay – a roasted pumpkin soup with chickpeas, seasoned with honey, Dijon, and some cumin. Also very tasty!

Hope to find chestnuts at the market today and make this squash soup!ReplyCancel

So funny that you mentioned the Moroccan style soup with the sweet potato and chickpeas because this is one of my favorites and I just made it this week. Had it last night for dinner. Delish!ReplyCancel

Claudia29/10/2014 - 6:31 am

that sounds like a very yummy soup! I might have to try it this weekend. One of my favorite soups (need to dig up the recipe) is a red lentil, curry soup with chili.ReplyCancel

I love all things Amy Chaplin! She is amazing and I would love, love, love her new book! My favorite warming soup is typically a start of onions, garlic and rosemary. I then toss in whatever veggies I’ve got on hand and make sure I add some good bone broth and tomatoes. Topped with some freshly made croutons and warm cheese!
I can’t wait to try this Kabocha Squash deliciousness, as well as your Moroccan Stew!!
Cheers,
MaureenReplyCancel

Shoshana29/10/2014 - 7:43 am

As soon as the weather starts getting cooler, my husband starts to incessantly ask when I am going to make my vegetarian chili. The secret ingredient is dark chocolate :-)ReplyCancel

This soup sounds unreal! And that book looks awesome too. Love this recipe.ReplyCancel

Hannah M.29/10/2014 - 7:55 am

That Moroccan-style stew of yours is a staple in my house as well. I’m also a fan of tomato-y lentil soups with lots of carrots and onions, and a bit of spinach wilted in at the last minute. We might get snow on Sunday (!) so I guess it’s time to haul out the big soup pot :)ReplyCancel

Jackie29/10/2014 - 7:59 am

Lentil soups and stews are a staple for this time of the year and your recipe for Smokey lentil soup is a favoite!ReplyCancel

Fiore29/10/2014 - 8:00 am

My favourite stew during autumt/winter is a squash-red lentils-cocco–tumeric-ginger. It is warm and delicios. Perfect with some
sourdough bread….
Zour new recipe sounds interesting -will try it soon.
Thank you for all you are doing!!!ReplyCancel

Sonia29/10/2014 - 8:01 am

Ooooh, this looks so good! I’ve had this book in my Amazon cart debating it….think I might have to go for it. Love your site, it’s one of my bookmarked blogs!ReplyCancel

This sounds amazing. Spotted chestnuts at the market and didn’t know how to tackle them.
This time of year, I’m all about the home-cooked thai curries — finally found a kick ass red curry paste in chinatown!ReplyCancel

Sonia29/10/2014 - 8:15 am

Forgot to leave my favorite one pot meal! This is my favorite time of year for cooking…so many soups, butternut squash soup with apple, chili with butternut squash, of course…pretty much anything with butternut squash!ReplyCancel

Donna29/10/2014 - 8:19 am

This recipe looks so interesting. I love squash soups but have never tried it with roasted chestnuts…a must do. This time of year we eat almost weekly some version of shakshuka or as I first heard it…’eggs in pergatory’. Recently I made it with roasted squash, tomatoes and those glorious providence herbs. We have our own chickens and seeing those lovely eggs floating atop that warm nutritious veggie goodness warms my heart. Thanks for all the great recipe ideas.ReplyCancel

I confess, I’ve never tried chestnuts, but this soup is intriguing me into going for it! This cookbook looks like one I’m going to need to add to my collection! Also, glad I’m not the only one who has cookbooks scattered EVERYWHERE in the house. I think of them as decorations : )ReplyCancel

We like Jane Brody’s lentil and carrot soup (heavy with tomatoes and onions), but I also have a vegetarian chile we call frijole mole, with cocoa. It is a great cold chaser too! Love The First Mess.ReplyCancel

Smadar Brandes29/10/2014 - 9:07 am

That soup looks too good. And the pictures are stunning, as always.

I have to steal your pick, Laura – the Moroccan-style stew with sweet potatoes and chickpeas is easily my all-time favourite.ReplyCancel

Tania Seagrove29/10/2014 - 9:13 am

So glad you reviewed this book! Can’t wait to check it out! It’s hard to choose a fall favourite…..so many yummy comfort foods at this time of year! Two soups that are calling out to me right now are Coconut white bean soup, ( a moosewood classic)! and roasted cauliflower soup! I have so many squash from my CSA right now, I will be trying this recipe for sure!ReplyCancel

My favorite one pot meal is “everything but the kitchen sink chill” which is basically all the veggies i can find in the fridge (must include some kind of peppers and lots of onions) plus whatever i can scrounge up. Best is sweet potatoes and corn if I’m lucky and any left over grain like quinoa or faro. I recently made a pot and added too much coriander which tasted brilliant and I’ll make sure and add “too much” next time. I love to add different combos of spice and try not blow my head off with too much heat. Perfect for fall. :)ReplyCancel

Jenny29/10/2014 - 9:21 am

Wow! Looks amazing :), thanks for another giveaway. My favorite one-pot, pure comfort meal for this time of year is my mother-in-law’s lentil soup, paruppu. It starts from a fragrant base of garlic, onion, cumin seeds and black mustard. When the black mustard seeds start popping, you pour in the red lentil, water to cover and a teaspoon of my aunt’s very spicy curry powder. Once soft and starting to fall apart, you cook the lentils down to your desired thickness, season to taste with salt and – if serving as soup – a good squeeze of lemon. Pure comfort.

Laura: Thanks for sharing this, Jenny! It sounds amazing and I just scratched out a rough note of your instructions so I can try it this week :)ReplyCancel

Carter29/10/2014 - 9:24 am

This looks divine, thanks for sharing! I dare say I might end up eating all of the kale sesame leaves before they make it to the soup. I’ll have to practice self control (or not…) when I make this!

My favorite one-pot meal is a spinach-and-sweet-potato red lentil dal, made with the spiciest curry blend I can get my hands on.ReplyCancel

Shilpa29/10/2014 - 9:30 am

Thanks for the giveaway Laura! I have been eagerly waiting for Amy’s book to come out.
You’re right, this soup is absolutely perfect for this time of year! I love the simplicity of it.
My favourite soup would have to be a simple bowl of dal with popped mustard seeds, topped with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lemon and a spoon of yogurt.

Fave right now would have to be vegetarian chili with sweet potato and butternut squash! That recipe looks so good.ReplyCancel

amanda29/10/2014 - 9:56 am

Above and beyond, my very favorite one pot meal for winter is a giant vat of vegan chili. I clean out the entire kitchen, and add extra beans so that it’s thick and stew-y, and can be scooped up with tortilla chips and topped with homemade sour cream. Between that and kimchi fried rice, all my cold weather food lives happily in bowls :).

These are most definitely some of my favorite photos of yours. The chestnuts in the pot of water!? Gah. I have never thought to use chestnuts in a recipe but can almost taste the flavor in this soup just thinking about it…SO GOOD. Thanks for reviewing this cookbook! Putting it on my list! And my favorite one-pot meal for this time of year? Gosh…that is tough! Probably something simple like potato broccoli soup.ReplyCancel

megan29/10/2014 - 10:16 am

My favorite one-pot meal is ever-changing and completely improvisational. Saute an onion and some garlic and go from there, adding water and/or tomatoes, a legume I soaked the night before and a handful of noodles or a grain. Yummm!

I actually bought Amy’s book for my mum for Christmas, but I have been flipping through it LOVING it ever since it came last week and I would love a copy of my own…..ReplyCancel

Michele29/10/2014 - 10:31 am

I love to throw stuff in the slow cooker and see what comes out. It’s usually good. This is especially appreciated on exhausted rushed weeks. Can be anything (I am not vegetarian) so, meat fish, tofu, quinoa or rice, some tomatoes fresh or preserved, coconut milk, herbs & spices. Nice hotpot results.ReplyCancel

anagha29/10/2014 - 10:33 am

I love roasted red pepper – tomato soup. The blend of flavors and the color are just perfect!ReplyCancel

Oh I have kabocha squash that has been sitting in my kitchen for a few days now! This looks perfect. Favourite one pot wonder definitely has to be some coconut sweet potato soup warmed with some thai spices to ward off the cold. xoReplyCancel

I’d have to say that my favorite one pot meal is a variation on chicken soup that I picked up in Spain. It is loaded with vegetables like roma tomatoes, carrots, and green beans. The blend of bay leaf, cinnamon stick and cumin balance the saltiness of black olives and finally the soup is thickened by adding oat groats. When they are fully cooked and the starch is released the soup takes on the consistency of a chowder but without any dairy. It is so rich and aromatic on a chilly day. I simply love this soup!ReplyCancel

Christine29/10/2014 - 10:39 am

My go to soup this time of year is a hearty curried lentil vegetable soup with whatever veggies I have on hand! Yum and stick to your ribs sort of dish!ReplyCancel

Heidi Hess29/10/2014 - 10:39 am

Gotta use kabocha this time of year. I love Japanese braised chicken with kabocha and chestnuts.ReplyCancel

Weezie29/10/2014 - 10:52 am

No fooling, the cauliflower, kale, and chickpea curry pot you posted earlier this fall has been a complete lifesaver. It’s a great repository for CSA veggies, is so delicious and is SO customizable. Swoon.ReplyCancel

Kerianne29/10/2014 - 10:55 am

I adore this book – it is so inspiring! I would love to gift it to a friend as I already have a copy that I will cherish as you do :)

These photos are freaking beautiful. I’m so in love with all of these vibrant dishes from Amy’s book — thanks for sharing it! (And I loved that gorgeous guest post, too!! It was really such a treat to read.)ReplyCancel

Sarah29/10/2014 - 11:03 am

This looks like pure fall comfort :). My fall fav is a creamy pumpkin soup that includes caramelized onions, roasted garlic, a touch of maple syrup, and toasted walnuts.ReplyCancel

Laura! I love your blog so much. Every image and post is so inspiring ;) You are incredible. Thanks for this giveaway! I’m a huge fan of things you can cook in a pot and kind of forget about (for a little bit), especially in Autumn. I always pretend it’s cooler than it is in Los Angeles, because I grew up with real seasons on the East Coast. Anyway, my favorite one-pot meal is spicy sausage, white beans and a ton of spinach. It’s like a hug for your insides ;)ReplyCancel

Julie29/10/2014 - 11:14 am

My favorite winter/fall meal is the Moroccan stew that you mentioned in this post. Before i tried making that I’d tell anyone who asked that i hated stews! Soggy veggies, stringy meat, discolored food. That stew is one of my favorite meals now and has opened me up to trying different variations. Thanks!!!ReplyCancel

I’ve been overwhelmed with the cookbooks coming out this fall, but this one sounds like a real stunner. I love the nori garnish, and I’ve always wanted to try roasting chestnuts.ReplyCancel

Christina29/10/2014 - 11:30 am

My go-to fall dinner is 101 Cookbook’s Pumpkin and Rice Soup. This recipe changed the way I looked at soups as a meal- the idea of pouring the soup over brown rice for texture and garnishing with a lemon-rosemary-ginger brown butter…so good!ReplyCancel

Amy29/10/2014 - 11:35 am

Ah, this book looks beautiful! I’m kicking myself for not adding it to my last Amazon order. Last year I made and LOVED your Moroccan-style stew, so it’s definitely getting made again. I also love a soup I got from the PPK blog- a creamy (from cashews) stew with chickpeas, brown rice, and kale. Simple and so comforting. :)ReplyCancel

Kristin29/10/2014 - 11:37 am

My favorite fall stew is Sweet Potato Peanut from Joy of Cooking. I have made with all kinds of variations and keep coming back to it every fall.ReplyCancel

Annie29/10/2014 - 11:45 am

At this time of year, I love making homemade ravioli, with kabocha, homemade ricotta, leeks, and toasted walnuts, with a sage brown butter sauce :) There’s not really a recipe, I just make it up as I go along…ReplyCancel

Jo29/10/2014 - 11:54 am

This book looks amazing! I’ve been reading her blog for years so I know it’s good.

My favorite soup recipe is one I make on a minimum of a biweekly basis during the colder months – it’s a simple red lentil soup with onions, garlic, turmeric, ginger, and whatever leafy green I have on hand. Now I think I have to make it tonight.ReplyCancel

Julia j29/10/2014 - 12:18 pm

My favorites for this time of year any anything butternut based, or the same tortilla soup my family has been making since I was about 5 (I know it sounds rather run of the mill). I’ve never tried any soup including chestnut but this looks delicious!ReplyCancel

Love the post and recipe Laura! These days my favorite one pot meal is adapted from a soup recipe I got from Whole Foods called “Better than Chicken Soup”. The basic parts I try to keep are shiitake mushrooms, greens, miso, a squirt of lemon juice and a starchy veggie like butternut squash. From there I improvise :)

Laura: Dina, I have a similar recipe to yours that I make all the time! Definitely a healing chicken soup-ish quality to it with the texture of the shiitakes and the miso in there :)ReplyCancel

Sherri29/10/2014 - 12:22 pm

Your soup sounds pretty good. My family has several favorites this time of year but white bean chili has been the go to soup this season so far with lots of cilantro on top.ReplyCancel

clara29/10/2014 - 12:23 pm

My favorite soup is the typical french onion soup with grilled cheese on top with a nice sourdough bread!
thanksReplyCancel

Emily29/10/2014 - 12:24 pm

I have been pining over this cookbook! Your Moroccan stew is actually one of my favorites too, although lately I’ve been making a very simple and comforting soup from potatoes and kale and whatever else is in my CSA box.ReplyCancel

Tessa Dillon29/10/2014 - 12:26 pm

Well, here I am shamelessly commenting because I am really hoping to win that cookbook!! Being a retired person now on a fixed income does rather curtail my spending! I have to say I have many one pot, warming favorites but the soup I made this last weekend may just be my go-to favorite now. My husband and I were out in the rain and cold doing chores outdoors (we live in the country and have a small property with two horses) and when we came in for lunch we needed something warm but it needed to be on the table relatively fast – we were hungry!!! So I looked in the fridge and realized I had the ingredients for a soup – left over zucchini that had been partially mandolined(sp??) for a previous recipe, plus one rather old zucchini, some onion, garlic, a small can of coconut milk, frozen broth in the freezer. I sauteed the onion and garlic, then added curry spice, cumin, coriander, salt and continue to gently saute. Added the chopped zucchini and sauteed til soft (the broth was in the microwaves, thawing while this was going on) Broth and coconut milk were added and simmered – pureed til somewhat smooth/still chunky, then grilled bread, torn and put in the bottom of the bowls, soup poured over and voila!! we were in heaven! My husband had grilled baguette and I had gluten free bread grill. It was hot and nourishing and sooooo good! The best part was that it truly was a left-over in the fridge and pantry meal and it came together very fast! (if I had an apple, would have added that!)
And last but not least, I have to say I love your blog! I have been reading it for more than several years now. I spend my mornings with coffee (this is after I have fed the horses) beside my computer, catching up on emails and checking my favorite blogs for inspiration and recipes – you never fail to disappoint!
Sorry I rambled on so much! I never make comments to food blogs, so this is a new one for me!
Cheers, Tess

Laura: Thanks so much for this, Tess! Your soup sounds so delicious too. So glad you’re enjoying the blog :)ReplyCancel

Sofia29/10/2014 - 12:26 pm

Beautiful soup + pictures :)
My one-pot fave is lentil soup. I do all sorts of seasonal combos of ingredients/flavours. It’s so hearty and delicious!ReplyCancel

What a lovely tribute to this book – I keep hearing such good things about this one. I have been loving a simple ribollita or even simpler bread soup this autumn – so cozy and wholesome and easy to throw together with whatever is on hand. But I do love that Moroccan stew you mention! I will have to make that soon, too.

Laura: Stacy, I’ve been really into ribollita too! It’s become a weekly thing in our house ;)ReplyCancel

Love those kale leaves! I was just thinking about a topping for a roasted garlic & white bean soup–these would do the trick, especially w/ a little nutritional yeast. Yum.ReplyCancel

Sonja29/10/2014 - 12:39 pm

Fall stews and soups are my favourite meals. I love big bowls of earthy warmness so choosing a favourite is very hard. I probably would have to go with something based on coconut and curry spices with lots of great fall veggies thrown in – yams, brussel sprouts etc AND of course I am mad for chickpeas so they would be in there somewhere.ReplyCancel

Mushrooms, Pumkins and Chestnuts!!!!
My three fall favorits!
A actually made a version of this soup last night, it was delicious!!
In the fall I really do love a good bowl of creamy/ earthy mushroom soup with some nice crusty bread on the side.

I just descovered you blog through Earthsproot and I’m really looking forward to going through all your old posts!
Yeah!!! :D
Thank you for the giveaway it would be totally awesome to have this book one day!…I live in France but I have family in the US that could reception any potential win for me, hint, hint, hint! ;)

Thanks in any case!!! I’m so exited to get to know your work, so far: beautifull.

Woo! My favorite one-pot winter meal would have been a giant pot of quinoa chili, thick and spicy with adobo peppers and three types of beans…but last week I just tried making Japanese curry for the first time, and I have to say that it might be my new favorite. I made a gluten-free curry roux, sweetened the whole mess of carrots, sweet potatoes, onions and peas with grated apple and ate it over brown rice and quinoa. So satisfying! Thanks for doing this giveaway and I adore your beautiful photos as always!ReplyCancel

Oops almost missed the details of the giveaway. I have to agree with you the Moroccan-style stew with sweet potatoes and chickpeas is unbeatable for me. I cannot get enough of sweet potatoes (I have been eating them practically everyday!) and you can never go wrong with chickpeas…simply delicious!ReplyCancel

Kate29/10/2014 - 1:09 pm

At this time of year, I look forward to mushroom barley soup with carrots, parsnips, and dill. You can make it with vegetable broth or beef stock… either way it’s so hearty and full of promise for the season of comfort food ahead. Love it!ReplyCancel

Laura, you’re totally right. That book looks amazing! Also, I’m really interested in trying this soup recipe, simply because I’ve never added chestnuts to soup. The combination sounds bang-on! One of my favourite soups this time of year is also a kabocha squash soup. It’s one that I entered into a contest at school (and was a finalist for) last year. It has harissa and orange in it, and it’s perfectly spiced. Coincidentally, I’ve been thinking about putting it on the blog in the next couple of weeks, actually. :) Gorgeous photos, as always. xxooReplyCancel

Sarah Moncks29/10/2014 - 1:31 pm

I love having homemade Cream of Tomato Soup with Garlic Croutons! Tomato soup is one of my favourite meals!ReplyCancel

Sara29/10/2014 - 1:35 pm

You can never, ever, go wrong with the classic leek & potato soup. It’s always the first one pot meal I make when the cooler weather hits because there’s something so grounding and warming about it. Either rustically chopped or blended. The first recipe I ever used was Jamie Oliver’s leek & potato soup and it also makes an excellent base for whatever you’ve got in the fridge. Favourite additions being white beans & kale or simply amped up with coconut milk or cashew cream.ReplyCancel

I adore curried carrot soup this time of year. Even better, it was a banner year for my garden carrots, so I just pull a few from the ground whenever I want. I love the bright orange color and delicious flavors of curry, ginger, and tumeric.ReplyCancel

Jennifer29/10/2014 - 1:48 pm

This looks beautiful! As for one-pot meals, is there anything better than butternut squash bisque with roasted chickpea croutons?ReplyCancel

Cate Capsais29/10/2014 - 1:57 pm

I can’t get enough of my roommate’s butternut squash soup! The basics- a whole, oven roasted butternut squash, a can of coconut milk, veggie broth, cumin, cayenne, rosemary, all boiled together and pureed with an immersion blender! I top with toasted pepitas or roasted chickpeas. YUM. It’s gone before anyone even dreams of leftovers!ReplyCancel

Lauren P.29/10/2014 - 2:01 pm

This recipe looks delish. My go-to soup for autumn and winter is a garlic squash soup that’s been passed down through the generations in my family. No recipe – done by memory and taste :)ReplyCancel

My most favorite one pot meal for this season is a hearty bowl of borscht. You just can’t beat it.ReplyCancel

Bouncingsonia29/10/2014 - 2:02 pm

Wow this soup sounds amazing using a combination of foods I would have never thought. Around this time of the year, when it starts to get cold here in montreal, I love to make split pea soup. I made a big pot just last weekend. So comforting.ReplyCancel

Beth29/10/2014 - 2:04 pm

My favorite one-pot meal is split pea soup. So hearty! And it makes for great leftovers to keep me warm at lunch throughout the week.ReplyCancel

Kim29/10/2014 - 2:13 pm

I’ve really been enjoying thai flavors in chunky stews this fall: my current favorite is red lentil-lentil lemongrass with sweet potato, spinach, corn and a touch of miso at the end.ReplyCancel

chili! with alll the veggies and quinoa and beans and maybe some pumpkin puree!ReplyCancel

Kate29/10/2014 - 3:08 pm

Cooking with chestnuts tends to intimidate me! But will definitely try this soup! I only came across Amy’s blog in the last year or so. Her thai lentil soup/stew with coconut milk, lemongrass, warming ginger and some kaffir lime leaves (if handy) is delicious! You can mix it up with different veggies. Nice and versatile recipe:)ReplyCancel

this soup looks incredible. i’ve never had roasted chestnuts but i’d like to change that as soon as possible and this looks like a perfect way to goa bout it.

i admire your mindfulness so much. i love that you have a different places for different cookbooks and i really appreciate the thoughtfulness with which you interact and describe amy’s book. it’s a beautiful endorsement.

i don’t think i have a favorite fall one-pot jam but one oft-recurring staple is a simple red lentil dal. it happens around here almost weekly.ReplyCancel

Dusty29/10/2014 - 3:49 pm

I have never heard of Kabocha but am excited to try it. I love any kind of squash and have just made my first pumpkin/butternut squash soup this very day. Great idea to add kale. I’m hungry just reviewing all these comments. Great ideas ladies.ReplyCancel

Abby29/10/2014 - 4:06 pm

Marcella Hazan’s chickpea and rice soup. It is more of a stew/very loose risotto, but it is 100% comforting and delicious. Made with arborio rice, tomatoes that cook down into a glossy tomato oil, rosemary, and chickpeas, it cooks quickly and can easily be a pantry meal. I’ve even made it over a campfire! Delicious, delicious, delicious.ReplyCancel

This soup sounds so rich and satisfying! My favorite one-pot fall dish is probably a huge vat of pasta fagioli — hearty and delicious and bursting with lots of veg. Thanks for the giveaway opportunity!ReplyCancel

My favorite stew is anything with sweet potatoes or butternut squash!
Your photography is just perfect. Seriously, and the recipe looks incredible. I haven’t tried chestnuts in a soup before, so I am looking forward to trying the recipe out soon! Thanks for sharing!ReplyCancel

Charlotte Lanoue29/10/2014 - 5:42 pm

My favorite soup of this time of the year is a rich and hearty one, like your lentil soup or morrocan-style stew. I love tasty pots during winter, which is why I often do all sorts of spicy stews which have a lot of warming flavours!ReplyCancel

Abby29/10/2014 - 5:45 pm

Every fall/winter I go on a huge roasted squash binge. My favorites are kobacha, butternut, and delicata. They make their way into monstrous bowl meals with other veggies, grains, and beans. Drizzle with a sauce, dressing, or olive oil and I am one happy couch potato.ReplyCancel

Amy29/10/2014 - 5:53 pm

Those leaves are so pretty! I love me some gypsy soup (from Moosewood).ReplyCancel

Jennifer29/10/2014 - 5:58 pm

I make a red lentil stew with lots of root vegetables and peas, and warming spices like cinnamon, cumin, turmeric, and lots of fresh ginger. It’s warming and tasty and also very beautiful with lots of golden colors and a bright green pop of peas floating in it. Yum!ReplyCancel

I make this stew during the chilly months using chorizo, yellow lentils and onion that is just divine!ReplyCancel

Becca F29/10/2014 - 7:10 pm

I love making smoked paprkia lentil soup this time of year! It’s so hearty, warming, and fillingReplyCancel

Maia Dickerson29/10/2014 - 7:35 pm

A curry sop…roasted winter squashed, coconut milk and curry as a base then add ins such as rice, farro, etc, maybe some chickpeas, roasted red pepper, cilantro, whatever I have on hand to throe in.ReplyCancel

kelli29/10/2014 - 7:51 pm

i am loving a bowl of soup …
breakfast
lunch
and dinner
the soup is a bubbling pot of anything that sricks me
anything that needs using up
a half an onion, a bit of rice, a chicken wing, a potato, an egg on top
whatever
it goes in the pot and always comes out nourishing and comforting
and economical tooReplyCancel

Butternut Squash and Sage Soup! And chili. And my grandma’s chicken noodle soup….I have a problem!ReplyCancel

Michelle29/10/2014 - 8:19 pm

My absolute favorite is baked sweet potato wedges. I make it the same way each time – a little coconut oil, a lot of cinnamon. It’s the easiest thing to make especially since I’m a student, but still comforting and healthy.ReplyCancel

Yoojin Lee29/10/2014 - 8:48 pm

yummm, chestnuts bring me back so many childhood memories!
my favorite one pot recipe has to be a big pot of roasted vegetable and tomato stew with chickpeas.. so comforting and filling, and can have tons of variations!ReplyCancel

I have been looking each week for this sqash and can’t find one!ReplyCancel

Hefeden29/10/2014 - 10:44 pm

Our weekly “go to” meal is burrito stir fry. It’s some kind of grain, beans and lots of whatever veggies we have sautéed together. We top it with avocado, sour cream and hot sauce and eat it out of a bowl. Delicious!ReplyCancel

One of my favorite Autumn dishes is a butternut squash curry, with spinach, chickpeas, and diced tomatoes. I add garlic, coconut milk, fresh cilantro, black pepper, cumin, curry powder, and extra cinnamon for a little more sweetness. Sometimes I switch up collard greens or kale for the spinach. Sometimes I add sriracha, for a little kick. I like to serve it over brown basmati rice. It’s really warming on chilly, gray days.ReplyCancel

Anna30/10/2014 - 12:05 am

My favorite go-to fall/winter soup is Borsch. It’s a very rich soup, originally from Ukraine. It can be based on meat broth or be vegan using only vegetables. It’s excellent for the winter season. Serve it with a scoop of sour cream and garlic toast. Delicious!ReplyCancel

Daisy30/10/2014 - 12:15 am

Thanks for the giveaway- I was not much a veggie cook – this book will be a great start and inspiration, fingers crossed. My fav one pot meal is done in a rice cooker – rice with ginger and soy sauce marinated chicken and rehydrated shitaki mushrooms – I am sure it will taste just as delicious with tofu for a vegetative optionReplyCancel

My favourite one-pot meal is eggplant curry – it can be tomato based or coconut based, and it works thickly as a stew or thinly as something more soupy.ReplyCancel

Kaley30/10/2014 - 1:47 am

My favorite soup right now is definitely that Bali stew recipe you posted a few months back! I’ve been making it once a week since then!ReplyCancel

Meghan30/10/2014 - 3:58 am

Both yours and Amy’s photos are absolutely breathtaking. I’ve never seen chestnuts in soup, but now have no doubts that the combination is stellar.

My favorite things to make this time of year are hearty stews that can barely be classified as proper stew, with loads of spices and verdant veggies. This year, the apples and butternut squash have been good to me, making a frequent (and delicious) appearance in the kitchen.ReplyCancel

Fall weather equals lentil soup in my kitchen. Today I made a big batch to share with beluga lentils with loads of onion and garlic. I sat out on the front porch and enjoyed a big bowl.ReplyCancel

Kate30/10/2014 - 7:39 am

Hey Laura! My favourite fall time food is assuredly warm morning oatmeal, still steamy and soft from the stove top. I add whatever I have on hand – some mornings, frozen raspberries smushed into a gooey jam, sometimes pecan or almond butter. It always starts my day off on the right foot…it’s almost meditative.ReplyCancel

I am so excited about this book. It is on my xmas wish list!
My favorite fall recipe is baked risotto with kale and butternut squash. It’s easy and satisfying on chilly autumn nights, and it makes great leftovers the next day.ReplyCancel

Spring30/10/2014 - 12:31 pm

My favourite type of meal in the fall is soup! I like a tuscan white bean soup with rosemary and kale.ReplyCancel

Marlee30/10/2014 - 1:03 pm

My favourite one pot meal has to be veggie pot pie. Mmmm with flakey crust baked right on top. Perfection.ReplyCancel

Brooke30/10/2014 - 1:30 pm

This time of year, I find myself eating Shakshouka for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It’s just too delicious! I make a large portion of the tomato sauce mixture and just heat it up and add the eggs when I’m ready to eat.

As a vegetarian, I’ve been eyeing “A Home in the Whole Food Kitchen” for awhile and would love to add it to my collection.ReplyCancel

Melanie30/10/2014 - 3:51 pm

The cookbook sounds wonderful. A favourite soup at the moment is carrot, ginger and coconut milk, so tasty and warming. Thanks!ReplyCancel

Jamie Y30/10/2014 - 4:01 pm

My favorite one pot meal will forever be chicken egg lemon soup! A favorite from childhood.ReplyCancel

One of my favorite (and easy!) winter recipes is the Red Lentil and Sweet Potato Stew. Sara B of My New Roots made the recipe for Whole Living’s Detox in 2013. It’s top notch!ReplyCancel

Madeline30/10/2014 - 4:23 pm

I love making coconut curries this time of year, with lots of ginger and lime :)ReplyCancel

Ashley30/10/2014 - 5:14 pm

Thank you so much for the chance to win this book! Your photos are beautiful. My favorite one pot soup is a minestrone with veggie sausage. :)ReplyCancel

Sarah P.30/10/2014 - 5:50 pm

Your soup looks amazing! I have had Amy’s book on my wish list and would love to win a copy! My favorite soup would have to be roasted red pepper– I love creamy soups.ReplyCancel

Marie30/10/2014 - 8:51 pm

this looks beautiful. I love making soup with pumpkin, sweet potato, red lentils and some coconut milk and spice.ReplyCancel

Caroline30/10/2014 - 9:31 pm

Beautiful! Just clicked over to Amy’s blog. I will be busy this weekend in the kitchen!
This time of year I crave polenta. Warm, creamy, comforting. Add some roasted veg and I am a happy girl.ReplyCancel

Connie lavelle30/10/2014 - 10:01 pm

My son was diagnosed with celiacs two years ago. With this life style change we have adapted to more of a whole foods diet. This book would be a great help/ addition to our diet. Can’t wait to try this soup this weekend. Our family favorite is my award winning chili. I never follow a recipe and it is a little different each time, but I have fed many soccer teams (high school and college) with this favorite. Love those recipes you make so much you have memorized and played with the recipe. I think this soup maybe one of those.ReplyCancel

This looks so lovely and Amy’s book sounds truly amazing! For me, the colder months brings on a strong craving for warming, spiced food in bowls, like curry, and dal, and bean-y vegetable-filled soups.ReplyCancel

Anna31/10/2014 - 9:11 am

For the fall/winter season my favorite is Borsch. It’s a very rich soup, originally from Ukraine. It can be based on meat broth or be vegan using only vegetables. It’s excellent for the cold time of the year. Serve it with a scoop of sour cream and garlic toast. Delicious!ReplyCancel

Jane31/10/2014 - 10:22 am

Growing up I would have said beef stew and biscuits as my favorite fall/winter meal. Now that I’m vegan not so much. I’m in a total soup/stew mood at the moment and have so many marked to try. I’m afraid I don’t have a go to at the moment, but Heidi Swanson’s spicy fresh pea soup is one that I’ve made multiple times. This soup looks delicious! Having never cooked with chestnuts before I’m curious to give it a try along with many of your creations and Amy’s. Hope I win!ReplyCancel

Magdalena Gioffre31/10/2014 - 11:05 am

This time of the year I love to eat vegan crepes!
Nice blog.
Love
MaggieReplyCancel

My favorite soup this time of year is absolutely anything with pumpkin! Thick, sweet one-pot soups with cream, pumpkin, and spices are just the best. :)
also… i cannot get over these photos! total perfection.ReplyCancel

Ever since you posted your really good tomato soup recipe, I’ve been obsessed/addicted to making it & exploring small variances in ingredients and flavor. It’s just… *really* good. I love that it allows me to embrace the time taken to prepare a delicious and nourishing meal – no shortcuts, no hacks :) Making that soup has become therapeutic. I use it as a wonderfully creamy tomato base for a variety of soups and stews I’ve made since first discovering it!

Love the kale chips on top. The combination of squash and chestnuts intrigues me. I didn’t grow up with squash soups but a good hearty chili or chicken wild rice soup just exudes autumn to me. Everything I’ve seen from the lovely book looks just incredible.ReplyCancel

Monique Sullivan31/10/2014 - 11:36 pm

My favourite soup to make at this time of year is sweet potato stew with beans and kale. That cookbook looks amazing!ReplyCancel

s.maddie.d01/11/2014 - 9:21 am

This book sounds swell! As does your collection of cookbooks! (:
I’m particularly fond of an Andean potato soup called Locro De Papas for this time of year. Its creamy from the avocado added, warm with achiote seeds and black pepper, and salty from feta or queso fresco. Absolutely sensational on a cold, dark winter night!ReplyCancel

Heather01/11/2014 - 10:55 am

I love a nice, thick meatless chili, made with plenty of beans.ReplyCancel

Florence01/11/2014 - 11:15 am

In the winter months I crave stews- a coconut & chickpea hotpot with spices, spinach and a spoonful of peanut butter or a sweet potato and lentil veggie “shepherd’s pie”!!ReplyCancel

amy01/11/2014 - 11:32 am

hi! beautiful pictures :) my go to soup is a simple one of potatoes, carrots, whole garlic cloves, lots of tumeric and maybe a few other ingredients … :)ReplyCancel

My favorite one pot meal is my spicy sweet potato soup. I tend to just throw in whatever sounds good at the time – usually tomatoes, carrots, maybe parsnips, and I finish it with coconut milk. It’s so good!ReplyCancel

Mickie01/11/2014 - 12:31 pm

My mom’s butternut squash soup is my favorite. I can’t wait to have it this Thanksgiving.

Your blog is so beautiful. I can’t wait to try more of your recipes. Thank you!ReplyCancel

Ariela01/11/2014 - 1:44 pm

Hi Laura!

My favorite one pot/soup/stew at this time of year has got to be a hearty, sweet, and satisfying combination of kabocha squash (the best!), golden turmeric, and miso, plus a medley of seasonal vegetables/greens and my favorite legume of the week. I keep the soup one part whole, one part pureed to keep the texture interesting and exciting. Eaten by a fire with some French music playing, and I’m in my happy cozy zone.ReplyCancel

I love the foods of fall so much. The mixture of subtle sweetness and savory drives me wild. I currently have about 20 squashes sitting on my back porch, just begging to be used.
As for my favorite dish, I would have to say it’s sweet potato and peanut stew. I mix together sweet potatoes, jarred tomatoes, seared tofu, peanut butter, and a bunch of African spices into one stew. It’s great because I generally have all of the ingredients in my pantry, and peanut butter just makes me happy.
Best of luck to youReplyCancel

Heather Taylor01/11/2014 - 4:28 pm

Gosh, I love all kinds of soups and stews and it’s hard to pick a favorite, but I’ve been craving Chicken Tortilla Soup!ReplyCancel

I’ve been making a sweet potato & chikpea curry over and over and over all this year. I find it so incredibly creamy and sweet and salty and perfect served with some millet or brown rice. I’m pretty sure it’s my favourite recipe of all times, all doe I haven’t shared it yet :) Thank you for the recipe tho!ReplyCancel

Lacey01/11/2014 - 7:45 pm

This soup looks to die for. Yum. My favorite soup lately was a pumpkin ginger apple soup made extra creamy with coconut milk from love and lemons! But really, I love all {vegan} soup this time of year.ReplyCancel

Wow I really like the way you combine your photo’s and recipes!ReplyCancel

Nickie Gorsky02/11/2014 - 2:23 pm

My fall into winter go to is Ayurvedic Dal. Rich with chana or masoor dal, veggies, fresh ginger, curry, ghee, green onions, raisins, tomato paste and coconut milk topped with cilantro. It will carry you through the season on wings of love and good health!ReplyCancel

Connielavelle02/11/2014 - 6:56 pm

Just made the soup. Love the flavor and the slightly sweet kale. Thanks for sharing.ReplyCancel

Britt02/11/2014 - 7:00 pm

Love your site and colorful, healthy, tasty recipes and musings. My go-to soup this time of year is creamy tomato soup with fire roasted tomatoes and thyme. Served with grilled cheese, no less.ReplyCancel

This time of year I love anything warm and hearty. Lentil soups and any kind of stew are my favorites.ReplyCancel

Jeni03/11/2014 - 1:03 am

This soup looks amazing. This fall I’ve been craving vegetarian tortilla soup. I also love sweet potato and peanut stew this time of year.ReplyCancel

Kelsey03/11/2014 - 2:05 am

My favourite is a toasted spelt and escarole soup recipe from Bon Appetit. Or a miso and soba noodle soup I recently tried. I love soup/stews so much it’s hard to choose.
I already had your morrocan stew on my to try list. Hearing it’s one of your favourites a year later makes me excited to try it!ReplyCancel

[…] consistency with hers, but I wanted to try the cashews again! While looking at her website, I saw a squash soup recipe topped with roasted sesame kale on the homepage, and it clicked. The perfect crunchy, savory topping for a creamy, garlicky soup. I […]ReplyCancel

[…] PS the squash recipe for this sandwich makes way more than you will need. I made 4 sandwiches with it (the onion recipe should give you enough for that), and blended the rest into a soup similar to this. […]ReplyCancel

Hi Catherine, it’s true that this one is a bit labour intensive–I find anything with hard winter squash tends to be this way. This time of year, you can find pre-roasted chestnuts at markets to help with prep time a bit. Also, instead of peeling and dicing a kabocha, you could definitely use the pre-peeled + cut butternut squash that they sometimes sell at grocery stores to save time.
-LReplyCancel